Photovoltaic Systems

Catalyx is developing a low cost complete photovoltaic system to enable deployment in developing countries.

Thin Film Photovoltaics (TFPV)

We are developing a low cost hologram to change the angle of incidence of the solar rays on a TFPV panel. This change is designed to allow a total internal reflection of the photon within the 50-micron thin film semiconductor layer, increasing the efficiency of the panel. TFPVs suffer from low conversion efficiencies due to the lack of time the photon has during its transit through the semiconductor material. We expect a 25% increase in the conversion efficiencies of TFPVs.

We selected amorphous silicon TFPVs for the following reasons:

1. Lowest production cost per watt. It is important to realize that efficiencies ONLY affect area covered per watt. TFPVs may take more surface area, but still cost much less per watt of capacity installed.

2. Minimum loss of efficiency in diffused light. Mono-crystalline and poly-crystalline silicon lose a disproportionate percentage of their capacity on cloudy days. TFPVs lose capacity directly proportional to the cloud coverage and density.

3. High ambient temperature operation. In most developing countries, the temperatures can go as high as 45°C-50°C (113°F-122°F). At these temperatures, crystalline silicon panels lose 30% or more of their capacity. Amorphous silicon TFPVs hardly lose any capacity.

Building Integrated PV (BIPVs)

TFPVs we use are manufactured on a glass monolith panel, which can easily be integrated as architectural glass for lower floor windows and doors.

Ultra High Efficiency Inverter

Catalyx has finished testing a prototype solid-state inverter of 1KW capacity. The inverter operates on high frequency pulsed input to reduce losses associated with high current heat generation.

Our inverter will offer the following features:

• Three way directional operation: The unit will automatically divert electricity for direct use, grid connect or battery storage.

• Optional integrated ultra capacitor for short, high amperage demand requirement.

• Small footprint.

The inverter has been designed for use with all DC generating alternative energy sources, such as windmills, fuel cells, etc.